Dodgers 2026 Infield: A Look Ahead
Are you ready for the Dodgers' infield in 2026? It might seem set in stone, but a closer look reveals some interesting possibilities! We're talking about the future of the infield, and it's more dynamic than you might think.
Currently, the Dodgers boast a lineup that includes future Hall of Famers like Freddie Freeman at first base and Mookie Betts at shortstop. Tommy Edman is expected to cover second base, and Max Muncy is holding down third base. The bench features reserve infielders Hyeseong Kim and rookie Alex Freeland, but their roles are still developing. But here's where it gets interesting...
As the Dodgers strategize for the upcoming season, the aging process and injury history of key players come into play. By the time the 2026 postseason rolls around, Freeman will be 37, Muncy will be 36, and Betts will be 34. Edman, at 32, will be the youngest of the group. What's more, each of these players has faced time on the injured list during the 2025 season, with Edman's ankle issues frequently sidelining him. Muncy's recent injury record is particularly concerning, as he's only played in 53% of the team's regular-season games over the past two seasons (2024-25).
Even though the Dodgers recently exercised their $10 million option on Muncy for 2026, they might still be looking for ways to inject some youth and health into the third-base position. The team has a history of using free agency to bolster its roster. They could turn to the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league and consider third basemen like Munetaka Murakami (age 26) or Kazuma Okamoto (age 30).
Murakami is a high-profile, left-handed slugger, but his high strikeout rate and fielding skills are a concern. Okamoto is a more disciplined right-handed hitter with power and better fielding skills, and he can also play left field. Both players are in their respective 45-day windows to sign with an MLB team.
Okamoto may be a better fit for the Dodgers. The Dodgers value positional flexibility, and he could be used in left field when Muncy or Freeland plays third base. If the team signs free agent Kyle Tucker for right field, Okamoto would balance the righty/lefty lineup.
Another option is to trade for a younger, experienced third baseman. Brendan Donovan of the St. Louis Cardinals could be the best option for the Dodgers, regardless of their free-agent signings. Donovan is a left-handed hitter who can play third base, second base, left field, and shortstop in an emergency. He'll turn 29 in January and would be an ideal number nine hitter in front of Shohei Ohtani. Rumor has it that he is available as the Cardinals continue their rebuilding program.
What do you think? Are you excited about the possibilities for the 2026 infield? Do you agree with the assessment of these players? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
